An elderly man in Alaska has tragically died from Alaskapox, a recently discovered virus, raising concerns about the potential dangers of this new virus. This marks the first known fatality from Alaskapox, according to state health officials. The man, who lived in the remote Kenai Peninsula and had a suppressed immune system due to cancer treatments, was hospitalized in November and passed away in late January. The Alaska Department of Health released a bulletin on Friday, shedding light on this alarming development.
Alaskapox, also known as AKPV, belongs to a group of viruses called orthopoxviruses, which infect mammals and cause skin lesions. It is closely related to smallpox, cowpox, and mpox. Although it remains unclear how the man contracted the virus, officials speculate that it could be linked to a stray cat that lived with him. This incident comes on the heels of health officials in Oregon confirming a rare case of human plague in a resident likely infected by their pet cat.
The symptoms of Alaskapox include one or more skin lesions, rash, swollen lymph nodes, and joint or muscle pain. Many patients initially mistake these symptoms for spider or insect bites. Dr. Joe McLaughlin, state epidemiologist and chief of the Alaska Section of Epidemiology at the Alaska Department of Health, emphasizes the importance of seeking medical attention if anyone suspects they have Alaskapox, especially individuals with underlying medical conditions or compromised immune systems. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent the progression of the infection.
The mode of transmission for Alaskapox remains uncertain. However, researchers believe it may be zoonotic, meaning it can jump from animals to humans. Tests have revealed evidence of current or previous infection in several species of small mammals in the Fairbanks area, including red-backed voles and at least one domestic pet. Although the cat tested negative for the virus, it regularly hunted small mammals and frequently scratched the patient. It is possible that the cat had the virus on its claws when it scratched him. The first symptom, a red lesion, appeared near the armpit area, where a notable scratch was observed.
To protect against Alaskapox, officials advise taking precautions around wildlife to avoid potential infections. They also recommend covering skin lesions caused by Alaskapox with a bandage to prevent direct contact and avoiding sharing bedding or linens that have come into contact with the lesion. While there is no documented evidence of human-to-human transmission of Alaskapox, it is essential to remain cautious.
Since 2015, only six other cases of Alaskapox have been reported to Alaska health officials. All of these cases involved individuals living in the Fairbanks area, more than 300 miles away from the Kenai Peninsula. Most patients experienced mild illnesses that resolved without hospitalization after a few weeks. However, immunocompromised individuals may be at a higher risk of severe illness. Richard Reithinger, an infectious disease epidemiologist at nonprofit research institute RTI International, believes that the distribution of Alaskapox is currently limited to Alaska. He states that the risk of it becoming a major public health concern is very low.
With the increased awareness surrounding Alaskapox, it is possible that more cases will be reported. Julia Rogers, an epidemic intelligence service officer with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, emphasizes the need for extensive animal sampling and testing to better understand the virus’s prevalence in the animal population throughout Alaska and potentially beyond. While there is no evidence to suggest that anyone outside of Alaska is at risk of Alaskapox, further research is necessary to fully comprehend its implications.
As this tragic incident highlights the potential dangers of Alaskapox, health officials and researchers are working diligently to gather more information about this newly discovered virus. By understanding its transmission, symptoms, and risks, they hope to develop effective prevention strategies and ensure the safety of individuals in Alaska and potentially beyond.
